Overview
- On October 1, Dowden shared an Instagram pledge to do all she can to raise awareness during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, posting an 'Early Detection Saves Lives' message.
- Reflecting on treatment two years ago, she said self‑checks were crucial, noting she was back in hospital with an infection then and warning that cancer does not discriminate.
- Appearing on ITV's Lorraine, Dowden praised the Change + Check campaign, said she feels stronger, and described tackling routines she never thought she could, with her husband urging her to be careful.
- Thomas Skinner called Dowden a 'cancer warrior' in a social media tribute and reminded men they can get breast cancer; the pair scored 16 for their week‑one paso doble, placing 13th.
- Dowden remains under medical supervision with monthly injections for at least five years and has recently urged people to be kind after receiving negative online comments during treatment.